Triggerable support package for seeds

ABSTRACT

A system for enhancement of crop production includes a triggerable seed support package. The triggerable seed support package has a payload including seed enhancement material, where the payload is configured to be released in response to a trigger.

BACKGROUND

Increasing populations and diminishing farm lands place increasingdemands on agricultural efficiency. The successful cultivation of a cropis dependent on numerous variables, and it has long been the goal offarmers to enhance the growth of plants in order to increase cropquantity and quality. Farmers deliver nutrients to planted seeds inorder to provide a more uniform germination rate and a more consistentoverall yields.

SUMMARY

One embodiment relates to a system for enhancement of crop productionincluding a triggerable seed support package. The triggerable seedsupport package comprises a payload including seed enhancement material,where the payload is configured to be released in response to a trigger.

Another embodiment relates to a method of enhancing crop production. Themethod includes planting a triggerable seed support package comprising apayload including seed enhancement material, where the payload isconfigured to be released in response to a trigger; and applying thetrigger to an area of the planted triggerable seed support package inorder to trigger a release of the payload.

Another embodiment relates to a system for enhancement of cropproduction including a triggerable seed support package. The triggerableseed support package includes a sensor configured to generate sensordata, a payload including seed enhancement material, wherein the payloadis configured to be released in response to a trigger, and a processingcircuit configured to detect a trigger based on the sensor data andcontrol a release of the payload based on the trigger.

Another embodiment relates to a method of enhancing crop production. Themethod includes planting a triggerable seed support package and applyinga trigger to an area of the planted triggerable seed support package inorder to trigger the release of the payload. The triggerable seedsupport package includes a sensor configured to generate sensor data, apayload including seed enhancement material, wherein the payload isconfigured to be released in response to a trigger, and a processingcircuit configured to detect the trigger based on the sensor data andcontrol a release of the payload based on the trigger.

Another embodiment relates to a non-transitory computer-readable mediumhaving instructions stored thereon, the instructions forming a programexecutable by a processing circuit to cause the processing circuit toperform operations including analyzing sensor data from a sensor of atriggerable seed support package, detecting a trigger based on thesensor data, and controlling the release of a payload of the seedsupport package based on the trigger. The seed support package includesthe sensor configured to generate the sensor data, the payload includingseed enhancement material, wherein the payload is configured to bereleased in response to the trigger, and the processing circuit.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be inany way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments,and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and featureswill become apparent by reference to the drawings and the followingdetailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a triggerable seed support packageaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a triggerable seed support packageaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a triggerable seed support packageaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a processing circuit according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for enhancing crop productionaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for enhancing crop productionaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a process for enhancing crop productionaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a process for enhancing crop productionaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a process for enhancing crop productionaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a process for enhancing crop productionaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for enhancing crop productionaccording to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings,similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless contextdictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in thedetailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting.Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made,without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matterpresented here.

Referring generally to the figures, various embodiments for triggerableseed support packages are shown and described. Crop production may beenhanced by using seed support packages that are planted with the seed.Such seed support packages may contain a single seed or multiple seeds,or may be configured to support an external seed or seeds. The seedsupport packages include a payload of seed enhancement material to bedelivered to planted seed in response to a trigger. Various triggers maybe used to control the release of a payload, as will be discussed indetail herein. The seed support packages may be designed from a materialthat is triggerable to cause the release of seed enhancement material oncommand (or in response to a certain condition). Alternatively, aprocessing circuit and sensor may be used within the seed supportpackage to allow control of the delivery of the seed enhancementmaterial. By controlling the release of a payload, the seed enhancementmaterial within the payload (e.g., fertilizers, micronutrients,probiotics, chemicals, plant hormones, etc.) may be discharged toinitiate or aid the germination of a planted seed, or to support plantdevelopment. As a general example, the sensor may be a radiofrequency(RF) sensor, and the trigger may be a radiofrequency signal that istransmitted over a field where such a seed support package has beenplanted along with seed. Upon transmission of the radiofrequency signaltrigger, the sensor may detect the radiofrequency trigger signal and theprocessing circuit may initiate the release of seed enhancementmaterial, thereby allowing a farmer to cause the seed to germinate oncommand. Many other triggers and sensor configurations may also beutilized in such a seed support package.

Referring to FIG. 1, a block diagram of triggerable seed support package100 is shown. According to one embodiment, seed support package 100includes payload 102. Payload 102 includes seed enhancement material andis generally configured to be released in response to a trigger. Payload102 may also include other materials aside from seed enhancementmaterial (e.g., binders, preservatives, reactive agents, etc.). Seedsupport package 100 includes all components necessary to release payload102. In one embodiment, seed support package 100 includes a containmentbarrier or a compartment that may be opened or closed in response to thetrigger. In this manner, a seed or soil may be allowed access to thepayload through the opened containment barrier. In one embodiment, seedsupport package 100 may comprise packaging material designed to enclosepayload 102. In another embodiment, the packaging material of seedsupport package 100 may integrate payload 102 therethrough. For example,seed enhancement material of payload 102 may be distributed throughoutthe outer packaging material of seed support package 100. The seedenhancement material may include substances used to initiate germinationof a seed, or to initiate/support/retard subsequent events of plantdevelopment. For example, the seed enhancement material may includefertilizers, micronutrients, probiotics, chemicals, plant hormones, etc.For example, the fertilizers may be organic or inorganic compounds, maybe in pellet or liquid format, and may be formulated for prompt orcontrolled release. The fertilizers may include at least one ofnitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, or sulfur. Thefertilizers may include compounds such as ammonium nitrate, urea,potassium chloride, or phosphoric acid. As an example, themicronutrients may include at least one of the elements boron, chlorine,copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, or nickel. The micronutrientsmay be in elemental form, or may be formulated as molecular compounds.As an example, the probiotics may include nitrogen fixing bacteria,phosphate solubilizers, methylobacteria, rhizobacteria, bacillussubtilis, azospirillum, lactobacillus, or the like. A variety of plantprobiotics and their effects are described in Bacteria in Agrobiology:Plant Probiotics by Dinesh Maheshwari, ISBN 978-3642275142 (2012). Forexample, the plant hormones may include abscisic acid, auxins,cytokinins, ethylene, gibberellins, brassinosteroids, jasmonates, plantpeptides, polyamines, nitric oxide donors, or karrikins, or the like. Inone embodiment, seed support package 100 is configured to include seed104. Seed 104 may be a single seed, multiple seeds, seedling, etc. Inanother embodiment, seed support package 100 is configured to support aseed, multiple seeds, or seedling external to seed support package 100.

Various triggers may be utilized to control the release of payload 102.In one embodiment, packaging material of seed support package 100 isreactive to a trigger material (e.g., sensitive to moisture, etc). Forexample, seed support package 100 may dissolve or break apart due tosoil moisture and payload 102 may be released. In this manner, water maybe delivered to a field in which seed support package 100 has beenplaced to trigger the release of release payload 102. In one embodiment,packaging material of seed support package 100 is sensitive to a certainchemical. For example, seed support package 100 may dissolve or breakapart due to a reaction between the packaging material and the triggerchemical. In this manner, the chemical may sprayed across a field inwhich seed support package 100 is planted to trigger the release ofrelease payload 102 as the chemical penetrates seed support package 100.

In another embodiment, seed support package 100 may be configured toinclude a time-based trigger. For example, seed support package 100 maybe comprised of a material configured to break down over a certainperiod of time. In another embodiment, seed support package 100 may beconfigured to include a mechanical time-based trigger. The trigger maycause the release of payload 102 at a specified time, or after a certainamount of time has elapsed. For example, the trigger may cause seedsupport package 100 to break apart and thereby release payload 102. Asanother example, the trigger may cause a compartment within seed supportpackage 100 to open and thereby release payload 102. Multiple seedsupport packages 100 may be planted in a field along with seeds, and maybe configured to release payload 102 at a synchronized time across thefield. In this manner, the germination of seeds of a crop may beinitiated in a coordinated fashion.

Referring to FIG. 2, a block diagram of triggerable seed support package200 is shown. According to one embodiment, seed support package 200includes payload 202, sensor 204, and processing circuit 206. Seedsupport package 200 includes all components necessary to release payload202 and may be comprised of material as discussed for seed supportpackage 100 of FIG. 1. Payload 202 includes seed enhancement materialand is configured to be released in response to a trigger. Sensor 204includes various sensing components that provide data to processingcircuit 206. For example, sensor 204 may include a radiofrequencysensor, a temperature sensor, a moisture sensor, a chemical sensor, alight sensor, a vibration sensor, or any combination of sensors, etc.Processing circuit 206 is generally configured to analyze the sensordata to trigger the release of payload 202. In one embodiment, seedsupport package 200 includes a transmitter 208. Transmitter 208 includescomponents necessary to transmit reporting data (e.g., feedback providedto a control device, etc.). For example, transmitter 208 may include aradiofrequency transmitter, and reporting data may include data providedby sensor 204 or data related to a release of payload 202, etc. Multipletriggerable seed support packages 200 may be planted with seeds of acrop and may be configured to respond to a single trigger.Alternatively, seed support packages 200 may be configured to responseto a unique trigger, or to a trigger corresponding to a particular groupof seeds, area of a field, etc. By adjusting the triggering propertiesof seed support packages 200, a grower can control and synchronize thedeployment of payload 202 for an entire crop, specific areas of a crop,specific groups of seeds, a specific seed, or any combination as desiredby the grower. In one embodiment seed support package 200 includes apower supply (e.g., a battery, a fuel cell, a solar cell, etc.) in orderto provide electrical power to support the release of payload 202, theoperation of sensor 204, processing circuit 206, or transmitter 208.

Referring to FIG. 3, a block diagram of triggerable seed support package300 is shown. According to an embodiment, seed support package 300includes multiple payloads (depicted as payload 302 and payload 304).Although shown as including two payloads, seed support package 300 maybe configured to include any number of payloads. Payloads 302 and 304 ofseed support package 300 may be stored together or separately (e.g., inthe same compartment or separate compartments), and payloads 302 and 304may be configured to be triggered by the same trigger or differenttriggers. For example, both payload 302 and payload 304 may beconfigured to be released in response to a single trigger. As anotherexample, payload 302 may include a first seed enhancement material andconfigured to released in response to a first trigger. Payload 304 mayinclude a second seed enhancement material configured to be released inresponse to a second trigger. Sensor 306 includes various sensingcomponents that provide data to processing circuit 308. Processingcircuit 308 is generally configured to analyze the sensor data totrigger and control the release of payloads 302 and 304. In oneembodiment, seed support package 300 includes a transmitter 310.Transmitter 310 includes components necessary to transmit reporting data(e.g., to a control center, etc.). For example, transmitter 310 mayinclude a radiofrequency transmitter, and reporting data may includedata provided by sensor 306 or data related to a release of payloads 302and 304, etc.

Referring to FIG. 4, a detailed block diagram of processing circuit 400for completing the systems and methods of the present disclosure isshown according to one embodiment. Processing circuit 400 is generallyconfigured to accept input from a sensor device. Processing circuit 400is further configured to receive configuration data. Input data may beaccepted continuously or periodically. Processing circuit 400 uses theinput data to detect and determine a trigger to control the release ofthe payload of a seed support package. Processing circuit 400 maygenerate the signals necessary to control mechanical compartments orswitches, initiate chemical reactions, and generally control the releaseof a payload. Processing circuit 400 may generate reporting data andformat the data to be transmitted. In controlling the release of apayload of a seed support package, processing circuit 400 may make useof machine learning, artificial intelligence, interactions withdatabases and database table lookups, pattern recognition and logging,intelligent control, neural networks, fuzzy logic, etc. Processingcircuit 400 further includes input 402 and output 404. Input 402 isconfigured to receive a data stream (e.g., a digital or analog stream ofdata) and configuration information. Output 404 is configured to outputdata for transmission or for use in a configuration process of a seedsupport package, and to output data to components of the systems asdescribed herein.

According to one embodiment, processing circuit 400 includes processor406. Processor 406 may be implemented as a general-purpose processor, anapplication specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more fieldprogrammable gate arrays (FPGAs), a digital-signal-processor (DSP), agroup of processing components, or other suitable electronic processingcomponents. Processing circuit 400 also includes memory 408. Memory 408is one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash Memory, hard disk storage,etc.) for storing data and/or computer code for facilitating the variousprocesses described herein. Memory 408 may be or include non-transientvolatile memory or non-volatile memory. Memory 408 may include databasecomponents, object code components, script components, or any other typeof information structure for supporting the various activities andinformation structures described herein. Memory 408 may be communicablyconnected to processor 406 and include computer code or instructions forexecuting the processes described herein (e.g., the processes shown inFIGS. 5-11). Memory 408 includes memory buffer 410. Memory buffer 410 isconfigured to receive a data stream from a sensor device (e.g. sensor204 or sensor 306, etc.) through input 402. For example, the data mayinclude a real-time stream of radiofrequency signal data. As anotherexample, the data may include a stream of temperature data. As anotherexample, the data may include a stream of moisture data from a moisturesensing device. As another example, the data may include a stream oflight data from a light sensor. The data received through input 402 maybe stored in memory buffer 410 until memory buffer 410 is accessed fordata by the various modules of memory 408. For example, triggeringmodule 414 can access the data that is stored in memory buffer 410. Thedata received through input 402 may also be immediately accessed.

Memory 408 further includes configuration data 412. Configuration data412 includes data related to processing circuit 400. For example,configuration data 412 may include information related to interfacingwith other components (e.g., sensors, mechanical switches, mechanicalcompartments, transmitters, etc.). This may include the command setneeded to interface with a computer system used configure seed supportpackages having processing circuit 400. Based on data stored inconfiguration data 412, processing circuit 400 may format data foroutput via output 404, which may include formatting packet of data s fortransmission via a transmitter, etc. Configuration data 412 may furtherinclude information as to how often input should be accepted from asensor device. Configuration data 412 may include default valuesrequired to initiate a seed support package and initiate communicationwith sensors of the seed support package. Configuration data 412includes data defining a trigger and/or characteristics of a triggeringevent. Trigger data may include required sensor data (e.g.,characteristics of sensor data, maximum/minimum values, average values,durations, schedules, etc.) that must be present in order to trigger arelease of a payload. Configuration data 412 further includes data toconfigure communication between the various components of processingcircuit 400.

Memory 408 further includes triggering module 414. Triggering module 414is configured to receive sensor data from a sensor device including asingle sensor or multiple sensors (e.g., sensor 204, sensor 306, etc.),configuration information, and other data as provided by processingcircuit 400. Triggering module 414 monitors data provided by the sensordevice to detect a trigger as represented in the sensor data or todetermine whether a triggering event has occurred. If a trigger isdetermined based on the sensor data, triggering module 414 controls therelease of a payload of the seed support package.

In one embodiment, the sensor device includes a radiofrequency sensorconfigured to detect a radiofrequency signal. Triggering module 414 isconfigured to process data provided by the radiofrequency sensor.Triggering module 414 may analyze the sensor data to determine if acertain frequency signal has been received. In doing so, triggeringmodule 414 may analyze various properties of the radiofrequency signal(e.g., frequency, amplitude, wavelength, etc.). If the signal includesproperties defined to be the trigger (e.g., as provided by configurationdata 412), triggering module 414 may initiate the release of thepayload. In this embodiment, the radiofrequency signal itself may bedeemed to be the trigger. As an example, configuration data 412 mayspecify that a 15 kHz radiofrequency signal is a trigger. Upon detectinga 15 kHz radiofrequency signal by analyzing the radiofrequency sensordata, triggering module 414 may generate the commands necessary toinitiate a release of a payload. In another embodiment, triggeringmodule 414 may be configured to control the release of multiplepayloads. For example, a seed support package may include a firstpayload (e.g., seed enhancement material to initiate germination of aseed) configured to be triggered by a 15 kHz radiofrequency signal, anda second payload (e.g., micronutrients to aid plant development)configured to be triggered by a 25 kHz radiofrequency signal. Triggeringmodule 414 analyzes the radiofrequency sensor data, and upon detectionof a 15 kHz signal or a 25 kHz signal, triggering module 414 generatesthe commands necessary to initiate a release of the payloadcorresponding to the detected trigger signal.

In one embodiment, the radiofrequency trigger signal is encoded withdata to address a specific seed support package or a group of seedsupport packages. Triggering module 414 analyzes and decodes the signaldata from the sensor. Triggering module 414 may access configurationdata 412 to determine if the signal should be ignored or accepted as avalid trigger. For example, configuration data 412 may specify aspecific identification code or data for the seed support package thatmust be transmitted within the radiofrequency signal in order fortriggering module 414 to consider the signal a valid trigger. If thecode or data is present, triggering module 414 may initiate the releaseof the payload as discussed above. If the code or data is absent fromthe signal, triggering module 414 may ignore the signal. In oneembodiment the radiofrequency trigger signal may be encoded with aparticular action or instruction to be taken by processing circuit 400.For example, an action may include controlling a release of payload(e.g., a release rate, a release amount, etc.) or scheduling a releaseof payload (e.g., setting the time of the release of the payload, etc).Processing circuit 400 may also be reprogrammed and reconfigured basedon instructions included within the radiofrequency trigger signal.Triggering module 414 analyzes the signal data from the sensor anddecodes the action/instruction. Triggering module 414 may generatenecessary signals to initiate the specified action or to reprogramprocessing circuit 400 according to the instruction.

In one embodiment, the sensor device includes a temperature sensorconfigured to provide temperature data (e.g., the temperature of thesoil, etc). Triggering module 414 is configured to process data providedby the temperature sensor. Triggering module 414 may analyze thetemperature data and compare it to values stored in configuration data412 in order to determine whether to trigger the release of a payload.For example, configuration data 412 may specify that the trigger is asoil temperature of 65° F. In this manner, triggering module 414 mayinitiate the release of the payload when the temperature data indicatesa soil temperature of at least 65° F. In another example, configurationdata 412 may specify that a certain temperature and duration of time maytrigger the release of the payload. In another example, configurationdata 412 may specify that an average temperature over a duration of timemay trigger the release of the payload. In another example,configuration data 412 may specify a temperature range that may triggerthe release of the payload. Multiple triggers and conditions may bespecified in configuration data 412.

In one embodiment, the sensor device includes a light sensor configuredto provide light data (e.g., characteristics of light propagating ontoor into the soil, etc). Triggering module 414 is configured to processthe data provided by the light sensor. Triggering module 414 may analyzethe light data and compare it to values stored in configuration data 412to determine whether to trigger and release a payload. For example,configuration data 412 may specify that a certain level of light isrequired to trigger the release of the payload. As another example,configuration data 412 may specify that a certain level of light isrequired for a duration of time in order to trigger the release of thepayload.

In one embodiment, the sensor device includes a chemical sensorconfigured to provide data related to detected chemicals (e.g.,chemicals within the soil, etc). Triggering module 414 may analyze thesensor data and compare it to values stored in configuration data 412 todetermine whether to trigger and release a payload. For example,configuration data 412 may specify that a certain chemical must bepresent within the soil to trigger the payload. In this manner, a growerwho is utilizing a seed support package including processing circuit 400may initiate the germination of a seed by spraying the field with thetrigger chemical (e.g., a nutrient, a fertilizers, an activator, etc.).Upon detection of the chemical by triggering module 414, the payloadcontaining seed enhancement material may be released by triggeringmodule 414.

In one embodiment, the sensor device includes a moisture sensorconfigured to provide data related to moisture levels (e.g., moisture ofthe soil, etc). Triggering module 414 may analyze the sensor data andcompare it to values stored in configuration data 412 to determinewhether to trigger the release of a payload. For example, configurationdata 412 may specify that a trigger is a certain level of moisture mustpresent within the soil. As another example, configuration data 412 mayspecify that a certain level of soil moisture must be present for acertain duration of time in order to trigger the release of the payload.In this manner, a grower utilizing a seed support package of thisembodiment may trigger the germination of a seed by watering the fielduntil a desired moisture level is reached. As another example, a growermay plant seed support packages of this embodiment in anticipation ofrain (e.g., based on a weather forecast, etc). After a sufficient rainshower has occurred, triggering module 414 may automatically control therelease of the payload in order to trigger the germination of a seedwithin the newly moist soil.

In one embodiment, the sensor device includes a vibration sensorconfigured to detect a vibration signal. The vibration may be a seismicsignal (e.g., detected by a sub-surface vibration sensor). The vibrationmay be an audio signal (e.g., detected by a above surface vibrationsensor). Triggering module 414 is configured to process data provided bythe vibration sensor. Triggering module 414 may analyze the sensor datato determine if a certain frequency signal has been received. In doingso, triggering module 414 may analyze various properties of thevibration signal (e.g., frequency, amplitude, wavelength,longitudinal/shear mode, etc.). If the signal includes propertiesdefined to be the trigger (e.g., as provided by configuration data 412),triggering module 414 may initiate the release of the payload. In thisembodiment, the vibration signal itself may be deemed to be the trigger.As an example, configuration data 412 may specify that a 3 Hz vibrationsignal is a trigger. Upon detecting a 3 Hz vibration signal by analyzingthe vibration sensor data, triggering module 414 may generate thecommands necessary to initiate a release of a payload. In anotherembodiment, triggering module 414 may be configured to control therelease of multiple payloads. For example, a seed support package mayinclude a first payload (e.g., seed enhancement material to initiategermination of a seed) configured to be triggered by a 3 Hz vibrationsignal, and a second payload (e.g., micronutrients to aid plantdevelopment) configured to be triggered by a 1 Hz vibration signal.Triggering module 414 analyzes the vibration sensor data, and upondetection of a 3 Hz signal or a 1 Hz signal, triggering module 414generates the commands necessary to initiate a release of the payloadcorresponding to the detected trigger signal.

In one embodiment, the vibration trigger signal is encoded with data toaddress a specific seed support package or a group of seed supportpackages. Triggering module 414 analyzes and decodes the signal datafrom the sensor. Triggering module 414 may access configuration data 412to determine if the signal should be ignored or accepted as a validtrigger. For example, configuration data 412 may specify a specificidentification code or data for the seed support package that must betransmitted within the vibration signal in order for triggering module414 to consider the signal a valid trigger. If the code or data ispresent, triggering module 414 may initiate the release of the payloadas discussed herein. If the code or data is absent from the signal,triggering module 414 may ignore the signal. In one embodiment thevibration trigger signal may be encoded with a particular action orinstruction to be taken by processing circuit 400. For example, anaction may include controlling a release of payload (e.g., a releaserate, a release amount, etc.) or scheduling a release of payload (e.g.,setting the time of the release of the payload, etc). Processing circuit400 may also be reprogrammed and reconfigured based on instructionsincluded within the vibration trigger signal. Triggering module 414analyzes the signal data from the sensor and decodes theaction/instruction. Triggering module 414 may generate necessary signalsto initiate the specified action or to reprogram processing circuit 400according to the instruction.

In one embodiment, the sensor device is separate (e.g., off-board, etc.)from the seed support package including processing circuit 400. Theoff-board sensor device may be linked to the seed support packagewirelessly (e.g., via the radiofrequency signal, etc.). The off-boardsensor device may be linked to the seed support package by acommunications cable (e.g., via an electrical conductor, an opticalfiber, etc.). The off-board sensor may be located above ground (e.g., alight sensor, an audio vibration sensor, a radiofrequency sensor). Theoff-board sensor may comprise an antenna (e.g., for radiofrequencysignals) which is electrically connected to the seed support package,wherein part or all of the antenna protrudes above ground. The off-boardsensor device may be linked to a group of seed support packages,providing triggering information to them. Upon reception of theoff-board sensor data, triggering module 414 may analyze the data asdiscussed with respect to the various embodiments including on-boardsensors. For example, the off-board sensor data may include moisturedata from a moisture probe device installed at a particular location ordepth in the field. As another example, the off-board sensor data mayinclude temperature data from a temperature sensing device installed ata particular location or depth in the field. As another example, theoff-board sensor data may include data from a chemical sensing deviceinstalled at a particular location or depth in the field. Triggeringmodule 414 may analyze the off-board sensor data and compare it toconfiguration data 412 in determining whether to trigger the release ofa payload.

In one embodiment the processing circuit 400 is separate from the seedsupport package 400. The processing circuit may be physically connectedto an off-board sensor, or may be physically separate from the sensor(whether the sensor is on-board or off-board the seed support package).The off-board processing circuit may be linked to the seed supportpackage or sensor wirelessly (e.g., via the radiofrequency signal,etc.). The off-board processing circuit may be linked to the seedsupport package or sensor by a communications cable (e.g., via anelectrical conductor, an optical fiber, etc.). The off-board processingcircuit may be linked to a group of seed support packages, providingtriggering commands to them.

In any of the embodiments described herein, a trigger or triggeringevent may be based on a function of sensor values from one or moresensors. Further, processing circuit 400 may be configured to storesensor values in order to maintain a history of the values.Configuration data 412 may specify that a certain trend or progressionof sensor values must be present in order to trigger the release of apayload. Accordingly, any of the triggers or triggering events discussedherein may be based on historical sensor data.

Referring to FIG. 5, a flow diagram of a process 500 for enhancing cropproduction is shown, according to one embodiment. In alternativeembodiments, fewer, additional, and/or different actions may beperformed. Also, the use of a flow diagram is not meant to be limitingwith respect to the order of actions performed. A triggerable seedsupport package having a trigger-responsive payload is planted (502).The seed support package may contain a seed or multiple seeds, or beconfigured to support an external seed or seeds. The payload of the seedsupport package is triggered to release seed enhancement material (504).The trigger may be time-based (506) (e.g., through breakdown ofpackaging containing the payload, a time-based mechanical triggeringdevice, etc.). The trigger may also be a chemical applied to the field(e.g., for a seed support packages constructed from achemically-sensitive material, etc.) (508). The trigger may also be awater applied to the field (e.g., for a seed support packagesconstructed from a moisture-sensitive material, etc.) (510). Thereleased seed enhancement material aids or initiates germination of aseed (512). Alternatively, the payload may include seed enhancementmaterial configured to support plant growth or initiate/retard plantdevelopmental events. For example, seed enhancement material may beconfigured to prevent a seedling from rotting.

Referring to FIG. 6, a flow diagram of a process 600 for enhancing cropproduction is shown, according to one embodiment. In alternativeembodiments, fewer, additional, and/or different actions may beperformed. Also, the use of a flow diagram is not meant to be limitingwith respect to the order of actions performed. A triggerable seedsupport package having a first trigger-responsive payload and a secondtrigger-responsive payload is planted (602). The seed support packagemay contain a seed or multiple seeds, or be configured to support anexternal seed or seeds. The first payload of the seed support package istriggered to release seed enhancement material (604). The first triggermay be time-based (606), chemical-based (608), or moisture-based (610).The first payload includes seed enhancement material configured to aidor initiate germination of a seed (612). The second payload of the seedsupport package is then triggered to release seed enhancement material(614). The seed enhancement material of the second payload may includethe same or different material than the first payload, and may beselected to initiate/retard a particular plant developmental event. Thesecond trigger may be time-based (616), chemical-based (618), ormoisture-based (620). The release of the second seed enhancementmaterial may support the growth of the previously germinated seed (622).

Referring to FIG. 7, a flow diagram of a process 700 for enhancing cropproduction is shown, according to one embodiment. In alternativeembodiments, fewer, additional, and/or different actions may beperformed. Also, the use of a flow diagram is not meant to be limitingwith respect to the order of actions performed. Triggerable seed supportpackages having trigger-responsive payloads are planted according to agrouping (702). Different triggers may be used to control the release ofpayloads of different seed support packages. For example, a first groupof seed support packages (and seeds) may be configured to respond to afirst trigger, and a second group of seed support packages (and seeds)may be configured to respond to a second trigger. The payloads of theseed support packages of the first group are triggered to release seedenhancement material for the first group of seeds (704). The payloads ofthe seed support packages of the second group are triggered to releaseseed enhancement material for the second group of seeds (706).

Referring to FIG. 8, a flow diagram of a process 800 for enhancing cropproduction is shown, according to one embodiment. In alternativeembodiments, fewer, additional, and/or different actions may beperformed. A triggerable seed support package having atrigger-responsive payload and sensor is planted (802). The sensor mayinclude any combination of sensors as described herein and the payloadof the seed support package is triggered to release seed enhancementmaterial (804) based on data provided by the sensor. The trigger mayinclude a radiofrequency signal (808), a chemical (810), moisture (812),a temperature (814), light (816), or a command (e.g., encoded in aradiofrequency signal, etc.) (818). The released seed enhancementmaterial aids or initiates germination of a seed (820).

Referring to FIG. 9, a flow diagram of a process 900 for enhancing cropproduction is shown, according to one embodiment. A triggerable seedsupport package having a trigger-responsive payload and sensor isplanted (902). The sensor includes a radiofrequency sensor, and mayfurther include any other combination of sensors as described herein. Aradiofrequency signal is transmitted over the area of the seed supportpackage. The signal includes instructions to program the triggeringcondition (e.g., define a valid trigger stored in configuration data412) of the seed support package while the seed support package is inthe ground (904). The payload of the seed support package is triggeredto release seed enhancement material based on data provided by thesensor and the programmed triggering condition (906). The released seedenhancement material aids or initiates germination of a seed (908).

Referring to FIG. 10, a flow diagram of a process 1000 for enhancingcrop production is shown, according to one embodiment. A triggerableseed support package having two payloads and a sensor is planted (1002).The triggerable seed support package is configured to respond to aradiofrequency signal, and the payloads may each have a triggercorresponding to a different signal. A radiofrequency signalcorresponding the first payload's trigger is transmitted to cause therelease of the first payload containing seed enhancement material(1004). The released seed enhancement material of the first payload aidsor initiates germination of a seed (1006). A radiofrequency signalcorresponding the second payload trigger is transmitted to cause therelease of the second payload containing seed enhancement material(1008). The released seed enhancement material of the second supportsplant development of previously germinated seed (1010).

Referring to FIG. 11, a flow diagram of a process 1100 for enhancingcrop production is shown, according to one embodiment. A triggerableseed support package having a payload containing seed enhancementmaterial, a sensor, and transmitter is planted (1102). The payload ofthe seed support package is triggered to release seed enhancementmaterial (1104). The payload may be triggered based on an externalcondition, for example, a weather report (1106), an output or productionrequirement (1108), or a futures price of a crop (1110), etc. As anexample, the payload of a seed support package of process 1100 may betriggerable based on a radiofrequency signal. Thus, based on thecondition, a grower can actively trigger the release of seed enhancementmaterial as he or she desires by transmitting the appropriateradiofrequency signal trigger. The released seed enhancement materialfrom the payload aids or initiates germination of a seed (1112). Thetriggerable seed support package may transmit reporting data based onthe triggered payload or the sensor data (1114).

The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown inthe various embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a fewembodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, manymodifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values ofparameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements may bereversed or otherwise varied and the nature or number of discreteelements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method stepsmay be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be madein the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the embodimentswithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and programproducts on any machine-readable media for accomplishing variousoperations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implementedusing existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computerprocessor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or anotherpurpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of thepresent disclosure include program products comprising machine-readablemedia for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or datastructures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be anyavailable media that can be accessed by a general purpose or specialpurpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example,such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROMor other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magneticstorage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or storedesired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions ordata structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose orspecial purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Wheninformation is transferred or provided over a network or anothercommunications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combinationof hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine properly views theconnection as a machine-readable medium. Thus, any such connection isproperly termed a machine-readable medium. Combinations of the above arealso included within the scope of machine-readable media.Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions anddata which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer,or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function orgroup of functions.

Although the figures may show a specific order of method steps, theorder of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or moresteps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Suchvariation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and ondesigner choice. All such variations are within the scope of thedisclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplishedwith standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and otherlogic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps,comparison steps and decision steps.

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, otheraspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes ofillustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scopeand spirit being indicated by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for enhancement of crop production,comprising: a triggerable seed support package comprising: a sensorconfigured to generate sensor data; a payload including seed enhancementmaterial, wherein the payload is configured to be released in responseto a trigger; and a processing circuit configured to: detect a triggerbased on the sensor data; and control a release of the payload based onthe trigger.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor includes aradiofrequency sensor configured to receive a radiofrequency signal, andwherein the trigger includes the radiofrequency signal.
 3. The system ofclaim 2, wherein the radiofrequency signal is specifically encoded toaddress only the particular seed support package.
 4. The system of claim2, wherein the radiofrequency signal is encoded to include a particularaction to be taken by the processing circuit of the seed supportpackage.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the action includes at leastone of controlling a release of the payload and scheduling a release ofthe payload.
 6. The system of claim 2, wherein the processing circuit isconfigured to be reprogrammed based on the radiofrequency signal, andwherein the radiofrequency signal includes instructions to configure arelease of the payload.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensorincludes a temperature sensor, and wherein the trigger includes at leastone of a temperature and a temperature range.
 8. The system of claim 1,wherein the sensor includes a moisture sensor, and wherein the triggerincludes at least one of a specific amount of moisture and a range ofmoisture.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor includes achemical sensor, and wherein the trigger includes at least one of achemical, a nutrient, and a fertilizer.
 10. The system of claim 1,wherein the sensor includes a light sensor, and wherein the triggerincludes at least one of light and a range of light.
 11. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the sensor is operatively connected to the supportpackage by a communications channel, and wherein the communicationschannel comprises at least on of an electrical conductor, an opticalfiber, and a wireless link.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein thesensor includes a vibration sensor configured to receive a vibrationsignal, and wherein the trigger includes the vibration signal.
 13. Thesystem of claim 12, wherein the vibration signal is specifically encodedto at least one of address only the particular seed support package, tocollectively address a group of seed support packages, and to include aparticular action to be taken by the processing circuit of the seedsupport package.
 14. The system of claim 12, wherein the processingcircuit is configured to be reprogrammed based on the vibration signal,and wherein the vibration signal includes instructions to configure arelease of the payload.
 15. The system of claim 1, wherein theprocessing circuit is further configured to maintain a history of sensordata, and wherein the trigger is based on the history of sensor data.16. The system of claim 1, wherein the seed support package furthercomprises a mechanical containment barrier configured to hold thepayload, and wherein the containment barrier is configured to open inresponse to the trigger.
 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the seedsupport package further comprises a transmitter device configured totransmit a signal, and wherein the processing circuit is furtherconfigured to: monitor the payload and generate reporting data; andtransmit reporting data via the transmitter device.
 18. A method of cropproduction, comprising: planting a triggerable seed support packagecomprising: a sensor configured to generate sensor data; a payloadincluding seed enhancement material, wherein the payload is configuredto be released in response to a trigger; and a processing circuitconfigured to detect the trigger based on the sensor data and control arelease of the payload based on the trigger; and applying a trigger toan area of the planted triggerable seed support package in order totrigger the release of the payload.
 19. The method of claim 18, whereinthe sensor includes a radiofrequency sensor configured to receive aradiofrequency signal, and wherein applying the trigger includestransmitting the radiofrequency signal.
 20. The method of claim 19,further comprising reprogramming the processing circuit based on theradiofrequency signal, and wherein the radiofrequency signal includesinstructions to configure a release of the payload.
 21. The method ofclaim 18, further comprising applying a second trigger to the area ofthe planted triggerable seed support package in order to trigger arelease of a second payload, and wherein the seed support packagefurther comprises: the second payload including a second seedenhancement material, wherein the second payload is configured to bereleased in response to the second trigger.
 22. The method of claim 18,further comprising: monitoring the payload and generating reportingdata; and transmitting the reporting data via a transmitter device ofthe seed support package.
 23. The method of claim 18, wherein applyingthe trigger is based on at least one of a weather forecast, an outputrequirement, and a futures price of the crop.